You’ll watch it on TV during the winter Olympics, so try it now with your friends, family, or co-workers.
The Wausau Curling Club holds public Learn-to-Curl events multiple times a year to introduce “Chess On Ice” to people of all ages. Whether you are a skilled athlete or someone who wants to give it a try, we will ensure that you have a great time learning the game of curling.
Several times during the season, our club offers learn-to-curl events to the general public to teach the basics of curling. When you attend a learn-to-curl event you’ll get instruction from our members and you will learn:
The history of Curling, the sportsmanship that drive the game, and some of the terminology used when playing.
How to be safe when walking on the ice and delivering a stone.
Proper delivery technique.
How to put the “curl” into curling.
How to sweep a stone.
How to score an end.
You will also learn how to become a member and the leagues that are available to new curlers.
If you cannot get low and deliver a stone like an Olympian, do not worry! We also can teach you how to safely stick-curl!
What to Expect
Age
Curling is a sport that can be enjoyed by players of all ages. At the Wausau Curling Club, we have members ranging in age from 8 to 80 years old. Minors are required to have an adult sign a required waiver on their behalf before stepping on the ice.
Instruction
All participants will learn the basics of safely getting a rock from one end to the other, sweeping, and scoring. We will then play a few “ends” of curling to simulate match play.
Hospitality
Hospitality and camaraderie are hallmarks of curling, so the Wausau Club has a large hospitality area. For private events, we will discuss whether food and refreshments are part of your plans.
The Ice
Unlike hockey or skating ice, which is smooth, curling ice has a pebbled surface. This is necessary for the stone to be able to travel the length of the sheet of ice. It also makes the surface less slippery for the curler.
The Rocks (a.k.a. stones)
Each rock weighs 42 pounds, but don’t worry, we never pick them up. They slide with ease on the ice surface. If any participants have difficulty bending down, we can instruct them using a stick delivery. The stick has extended curling careers by decades, and they are regularly used in leagues and tournaments.
Clothing
The temperature inside the ice house is 40 degrees. Wear layers and comfortable, flexible pants. Bring a clean pair of athletic (rubber-soled) shoes to wear on the ice. Street shoes are not allowed on the ice.
Equipment
All necessary curling equipment will be provided by the club. If you wish, you may choose to wear a bicycle helmet while on the ice. A limited number of helmets are available at the club.
Waiver
All participants will be asked to sign a waiver prior to stepping on the ice. You can print those in advance from our WausauCurling.org website or you can complete at check-in.
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